Hiking in Boulder: Royal Arch at Chautauqua

To Royal Arch from Chatauqua — ~1.7 miles

Elevation change – 1,205 ft (net gain) [via protrails.com]

Dogs Allowed – yes

Among the fascinating and mind-boggling rock formations along the Flatiron trails is the Royal Arch, a massive formation that forms a completed curve over a 20 ft. span.  The arch tops out at an elevation of 6,915 ft. and offers – as most peaks do in this area – an amazing panoramic view of the entire Boulder Valley all the way out to Denver.  This is one of the steepest trails in the area, but the gorgeous forest scenery and the big summit payoff are well worth the effort.

Take Bluebell Road (the big gravel one that runs alongside Chatauqua Park) and follow it for about 15 minutes.  There will be a fork in the path that is easily marked by the large permanent restroom – head west, directly toward the looming Flatirons.  The next 200 yards is full of great picnicking spots, where you can find plenty of tables and the very posh Bluebell Shelter that’s fit for a party.  However, you aren’t on this trip to relax — you’re here to conquer some gnarly hiking terrain!

I suggest you adopt this attitude as quickly as possible, because once the path starts to get rocky, it gets more difficult from there.  Once you’ve passed the large boulder field on your right, you have stepped across the threshold.

The rest of the trail is very steep.  There are plenty of solid man-made staircases (and by man-made I mean “strategically placed rocks”) but there are also times you’ll wonder where the trail went.  Don’t get me wrong – every turn of the trail has a new and beautiful sight.  But in terms of athleticism, I’d say the trail veers somewhere between “daunting forest monastery” and “Chief Stairmaster’s Revenge.”

You will arrive at the Royal Arch like a very sweaty piece of twine ready to thread the eye of this needle.  The late summer sun will be eclipsed by the top of the arch, creating an imposing shadow that is quite breathtaking.  Through the arch is a family of large boulders that make a great perch as you take in as much horizon as you can handle.  You have officially accomplished your mission!